View report page

40
It was pointed out by the deputation that the shortened
supply of water—six hours a day to the inhabitants was having
a prejudicial effect on the health of the people, drains and sewers
were beginning to stink, and it was feared if more water were
not pumped into the district, serious results might follow.
I pointed out the following facts, that for the fortnight ending
July 17th, (the fortnight previous to the drought)
LONDON MILE END
General Death Rate 21.6 25.2
Gastro Enteritis 1.6 5.7
For the fortnight ending August 1st, (the period of the drought)
LONDON MILE END
General Death Rate 24.8 34.1
Gastro Enteritis 2.6 11.2
After hearing the various views of the speakers, the President
promised to do what he could to bring about a happier state of
things.
Fortunately for the people and the Company soon after this
rain fell enough to fully stock their reservoirs, so ending the
drought. It is, of course, impossible for me to say what
effect it had on the public health; the results of a shortened
supply does not always manifest itself at once and the effects
are felt in various ways long afterwards. It is, however,
to be hoped that such provision has been made or wilj
be made as to prevent any repetition of what must be and is a
danger to the people, a restricted water supply.
Mortuary
The number of bodies deposited in the Mortuary during the
past year was 160, and 19 Post Mortems were held. Several
of these died from Infectious disease, and were placed in that
part of the Mortuary specially built for Infectious cases. There
is no doubt the Mortuary built as it is in the very centre of the
Hamlet is a great convenience to the ratepayers generally, and
also to those unfortunate persons who have to attend Inquests,
viz., Jurymen and friends of the deceased.